How to Create a Commercial Invoice
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yv9LGwnMcl0
The commercial invoice is the primary form required for international shipments. We’ve outlined everything you need to know about it below.
What is a commercial invoice?
The commercial invoice (or pro forma invoice) is required for all cross-border shipments (except for documents that have no commercial value). It is the primary form used to assess duties, taxes and verify that the shipment complies with regulations.
If you are creating an export shipment, you are responsible for preparing the commercial invoice.
When you’re creating your shipping label we’ll help you fill out your commercial invoice as you go. It is important to provide accurate and specific information in order to avoid customs delays.
What information is needed for a commercial invoice?
To complete a commercial invoice, you will need to provide specific details about what you are shipping, such as:
- Shipment description (describe the whole shipment and its products) and the product value of everything being shipped
- Country-of-origin for every commodity line on the invoice
- Country-of-manufacture for the goods (e.g., required for cosmetics)
- 10-digit Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS)
- Quantity and value of items in the shipment
How do I fill out a commercial invoice?
We’ll help you fill out your commercial invoice as you’re creating your shipping label on UPS.com. It is important to provide accurate and specific information in order to avoid customs delays.
If you have a UPS account, we can transmit your commercial invoice digitally (to enable Paperless® Invoice, go to your account details screen). If you don’t have an account, you can open one here and will be automatically enrolled. Otherwise, be sure to print out three copies of the commercial invoice and include it with your package.
You can also print out a blank commercial invoice to fill out manually if you prefer.
Additional Tips for Completing a Commercial Invoice
- Please provide accurate and complete descriptions of the goods you’re exporting.
- Make sure to clearly state your reason for exporting on the document, e.g. gift.
- Please include accurate and complete contact information for you and for the recipient.
- Please include a harmonized tariff code. This global system of classification speeds up exports, reduces delays and can help you avoid any additional fees or charges.
- If you aren’t transmitting the commercial invoice electronically, three signed copies–one original and two copies–are required and should be included with your shipment. Make sure you also keep a copy of the original signed commercial invoice for your own records.
What customs forms might I need?
The customs forms required for your shipment will depend upon the details of what you’re shipping and to whom. Our shipping tool will help you determine which forms are needed, but we’ve outlined some of the most common international shipping forms as well.